Understand

Galata, located in Istanbul, Turkey, holds a rich history as a trade colony of the Genoese and the Venetians. It was an autonomous area even after the Ottoman Empire captured Istanbul, maintaining its status and charm. Although its city walls have been mostly destroyed, there are still remnants of its past scattered throughout the area. Beyolu, which lies north of Galata, emerged in the 1850s with the opening of the Grand Rue de Pera, now known as Istiklal Street. Taksim Square, a bustling and vibrant area, took on its current appearance in the 1930s. Stiklal Caddesi, Istanbul's well-known pedestrian street, is always bustling with thousands of people enjoying its vibrant atmosphere. Along this street, you can find numerous restaurants and shops offering various delights. Take a detour into the side streets to explore the impressive embassy buildings that now serve as consulates. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the British consulate on Hamalba Caddesi. Galata has always represented the western influence in Istanbul. From its prominent neo-classical architecture to its status as the birthplace of many firsts in Turkey, such as street lighting, the first underground railway, and European-style theaters, this district showcases the fusion of East and West. The Ottoman dynasty's decision to move to Dolmabahe Palace near Beyolu during the last century of the empire symbolized their efforts to embrace westernization. Experience the allure of Galata and immerse yourself in its captivating blend of history and culture!

Get in

Looking for a convenient and affordable way to get to Taksim Square from the airports? HAVA, the official airport shuttle service, has got you covered. You can catch a shuttle from Atatürk Airport or Sabiha Gken Airport and be on your way to the heart of the city in no time. The cost is just TL 11 per person from Atatürk Airport and TL 14 per person from Sabiha Gken Airport (as of October 2014) [1]. If you're coming from anywhere in the city, you're in luck. Taksim Square is so centrally located that you can find a direct bus from almost anywhere, except the outermost suburbs. Some of the most useful bus lines for travelers include: - 61B: Taksim-Beyazt, near Sultanahmet [2] - 96T: Taksim-Atatürk Airport - 110: Taksim-Kadky Don't forget about the dolmuş! These mini-buses can take you from Beikta, Bakrky, Kadky, and Bostanc (all located in the Asian Side) to Taksim. If you prefer the metro, there's a line that connects Taksim Square with districts located to the north. And for a scenic route, hop on the modern tram line that connects the lower parts of Taksim with the peninsula of Old City. Fancy a ferry ride? Head over to Kadky and take a ferry across the Bosphorus to Karaky. Need a taxi from Istanbul Airport? No problem. You can easily catch one and reach Taksim Square for approximately 160 TL. And don't forget, if you're feeling up to it, you can always walk from Eminn to Galata/Karaky via the Galata Bridge. So many options to choose from to get to Taksim Square!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish 1: Köfte - Köfte is a traditional Turkish dish consisting of seasoned minced meat, typically beef or lamb, formed into patties or torpedo shapes and grilled or fried. It's often served with flatbread, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce called cacık.

Dish 2: Kebap - Kebap refers to a variety of grilled meat dishes in Turkish cuisine, typically featuring marinated cubes or thin slices of beef, lamb, or chicken, skewered and grilled over an open flame. They can be served plain or with a side of rice, bulgur, or flatbread, and often accompanied by a range of sauces and condiments.

Dish 3: Baklava - Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and butter, then cut into diamond or square-shaped portions and held together with honey or sugar syrup. This rich, crunchy dessert is a staple in Turkish cuisine and often enjoyed during special occasions or as a treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing